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Sunday, September 14, 2014

Herb of the Week: Turmeric

This week I have decided to add in a herb. This weeks herb is Turmeric.

This a wonderful root plant that has a lovely golden color. It is great herb that can boost the the immune system and even promote a more restful night sleep. This plant has been used in Indian cook and traditional medicine for thousands of years.

The medicinal compound in turmeric are called curcuminoids, curcumin is main active ingredient and the most importan of the curcuminoids. Curcumin has powerful anti-infammatory effecft and is a strong antioxidant.

The amount of curcuim in turmeric in about 3%, by weight. Just consuming the herb itself will not impart all the effect of the herb. also, curcumin is poorly absorbed into the bloodstream. When taken with black pepper, which contain piperine, the abosration rates rise by 2000% .

This suggest that the benefits of turmeric to be full experienced should be taken in a pill form or in a tincture.

Special Precautions & Warnings:

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Taking turmeric by mouth in medicinal amounts is LIKELY UNSAFE in pregnancy. It might promote a menstrual period or stimulate the uterus, putting the pregnancy at risk. Don’t take turmeric if you are pregnant.( WebMD)

There is not enough information to rate the safety of turmeric during breast-feeding. It’s best not to use it.(WebMD)

Gallbladder problems: Turmeric can make gallbladder problems worse. Don’t use turmeric if you have gallstones or a bile duct obstruction.(WebMD)

Surgery: Turmeric might slow blood clotting. It might cause extra bleeding during and after surgery. Stop using turmeric at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.(WebMD)

Tumeric might slow the clotting of the blood. Especially if taken along with any other medication that slow clotting , and could improve chances of bruising and bleeding.